Prefer /(?)/

imp. & p. p. Preferred; p. pr. & vb. n. Preferring

1. To carry or bring (something) forward, or before one; hence, to bring for consideration, acceptance, judgment, etc.; to offer; to present; to proffer; to address; -- said especially of a request, prayer, petition, claim, charge, etc.

   He spake, and to her hand preferred the bowl.

   Presently prefer his suit to Cæsar.

   Three tongues prefer strange orisons on high.

2. To go before, or be before, in estimation; to outrank; to surpass. [Obs.]
3. To cause to go before; hence, to advance before others, as to an office or dignity; to raise; to exalt; to promote; as, to prefer an officer to the rank of general.

   I would prefer him to a better place.

4. To set above or before something else in estimation, favor, or liking; to regard or honor before another; to hold in greater favor; to choose rather; -- often followed by to, before, or above.

   If I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.

   Preferred an infamous peace before a most just war.